Hand Level Surveying
Hand level is the device that is generally used by grading contractors and land surveyors. Hand level is worked by comparing multiple points against a reference point to found a height or horizontal distance. Hand level surveying is ideal for preliminary land survey work, simple distance measurement or any other site job.
Hand level surveying saves our valuable time because it does not require a tripod stand or levelling instrument setup. Hand level surveying is a quick process that’s why contractors use it widely. Hand level is also known as sight level, pocket level and Abney level.
What Is Site Level?
Hand level and Site-level is the same instrument. Different names present them. Sometimes it called also Hand Site level. Hand level is a tool that is used for rough levelling, that is an estimation and not for precision. Hand level instrument held by hand and used for approximate work at a small distance. Hand level is suitable for cutting and filling grading job and levelling of any ground surface.
Hand level is a spirit level which is fixed in the telescope. Hand level is worked by comparing multiple points against a reference point to found a height or horizontal distance. Hand sight levels are ideal in that type of projects which including bricklaying, fencing, laying lawn, etc. Hand levels required less time as compared to another levelling instrument by setting and levelling. Nowadays, most projects around the houses require hand sight level for estimation purpose; this could be helpful by using a hand sight level.
How to Use a Hand Level?
It’s one of the easy instrument to handle. So, it can easily be operated by anyone. The steps to use a hand level are- At first, we need to hold the device at eye level and look through a small opening of the hand level instrument. Secondly, you must make sure that you should not cover the spirit vial when you are holding the instrument.
After that, depending on the reference point, you need to raise the lower front end of sight level until the bubble of spirit level fixed in the centre of the centre line in the viewing window.
Then once the bubble centre to the centre line of the instrument, we found the level from that. Finally, one of the essential things is if you hold the instrument in a table or other plane surface station it will give you a more accurate reading despite the previous one because by this method the device is resting steadily.
Estimating Distance with a Sight Level
A sight level is also used with sighting rod. It is used for estimating distances between the user and the object
Procedure for Estimating Distance with a Sight Level
At first, you need to look through the device. Then we need to note down the top and bottom lines of the viewing window. Generally, the ratio of bottom and top is 1:12.
Here is an example, if a user looks through sight level of the instrument and sees the top line at six fleet’s of the rod and bottom line at three fleets, so the user is 36 feet away from the rod.
Here you observe how to calculate the problem. First, we are going to find the difference between the two distances in the viewing window; it’s just 6 – 3 = 3. After that, we calculate the difference and multiply by 12. It’s done because to convert from thee distance ratio to the actual distance, that is 3 x 12 = 36. So, it’s the whole process of hand level, use of hand level and estimating distance through this instrument.
FAQs on Hand Level Surveying
What is a hand level and how does it differ from other surveying instruments?
A hand level, also known as a sight level or pocket level, is a simple surveying tool used for rough leveling and estimation purposes. Unlike traditional leveling instruments, hand levels are operated by hand and do not require a tripod setup.
What are the advantages of hand level surveying?
Hand level surveying saves time as it eliminates the need for complex instrument setups. It is ideal for quick, preliminary land survey work and simple distance measurements. Moreover, it is convenient for contractors due to its portability and ease of use.
What projects are hand levels suitable for?
Hand levels are suitable for a variety of projects, including cutting and filling grading jobs, leveling ground surfaces, bricklaying, fencing, and laying lawns. They are particularly useful for tasks that require rough leveling and estimation rather than precision.
How do you use a hand level?
To use a hand level, hold the device at eye level and look through the small opening. Ensure that the spirit vial is not covered. Adjust the lower front end of the sight level until the bubble is centered in the viewing window. For more accuracy, place the instrument on a steady surface.
Can hand levels be used for estimating distances?
Yes, hand levels can be used with sighting rods to estimate distances between the user and an object. By noting the top and bottom lines in the viewing window and applying a simple ratio calculation, users can determine approximate distances.
What are the key considerations for accurate distance estimation with a hand level?
Accurate distance estimation involves noting the top and bottom lines in the viewing window and calculating the difference between them. This difference is then multiplied by a conversion factor (typically 12) to obtain the actual distance.
Are hand levels suitable for precise leveling tasks?
No, hand levels are not designed for precise leveling tasks. They are best suited for rough leveling and estimation purposes. For precise leveling tasks, more sophisticated leveling instruments such as automatic levels or total stations are used.
Can hand levels be used in conjunction with other surveying instruments?
Yes, hand levels can complement other surveying instruments, especially in situations where quick estimations or preliminary surveys are required. They can be used alongside tape measures, sighting rods, and even GPS equipment for various surveying tasks.
